Denosumab is classified as which type of treatment?

Denosumab is classified as a biologic therapy because it is a monoclonal antibody designed to target specific proteins in the body that regulate bone metabolism. It works by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone resorption, thus helping to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in patients with osteoporosis.

Biologic therapies, including denosumab, are typically derived from living organisms and are engineered to interact with specific biological pathways. This contrasts with oral medications, which are commonly small molecules that generally have different mechanisms of action. Additionally, dietary supplements refer to vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients taken to support health, which is not the classification for denosumab. Hormone replacement treatments are aimed at replenishing hormones, and while denosumab influences bone metabolism, it does not function by replacing hormones directly, which further solidifies its classification as a biologic therapy.